Tech Formalizes Computer Science Pact With Ruidoso College

SOCORRO, N.M. February 12, 2013 – Officials from Eastern New Mexico University-Ruidoso and New Mexico Tech signed a memorandum of understanding on Friday, Feb. 1, that paves the way for computer science students to make a smooth transition.

Eastern New Mexico University-Ruidoso has a growing and well-regarded program in cyber security. In fact, the Ruidoso school is the only community college in the state to boast a INFOSEC-certified program in computer science.

Dr. Clayton Alred, President of the Ruidoso college, and Dr. Peter Gerity, Vice President at New Mexico Tech, met with other administrators and professors to sign the agreement and discuss potential projects.

Chad Smith, Vice President of Student Learning at ENMU-Ruidoso, said “We hope to become a very large funnel of students to New Mexico Tech. We think this will grow exponentially – and that’ll be a good thing for both institutions.”

The articulation agreement includes courses in humanities, social sciences, math, communications and laboratory sciences – in addition to core classes in computer science and information technology. The agreement also includes six network security courses offered at the Ruidoso campus that will now be available via distance education to Tech students.

Liebrock said both parties envision developing a pipeline that starts with high-school level instruction at Ruidoso High School, continues at ENMU-Ruidoso and then to New Mexico Tech.

“This agreement allows us to support each other and support students,” she said.